The last three hours of the 10-session series are integration hours – the work of the previous sessions is wrapped up in a coherent way. Again, the framework below provides the general idea for each session – your session may be somewhat different based on your individual needs.
Read MoreIn my last post, I discussed the first three sessions in the ten sessions of structural integration. The next four sessions in the series are “core” sessions that consider a deeper level in the tissues. These sessions typically include work to differentiate muscle groups so that the groups can perform their own functions appropriately and also that we learn to avoid recruiting them when they are not needed.
Read MoreStructural Integration is a series of sessions that help you find ease of movement, improved physical performance, and less pain. I like how systematic and organized the process is (still an engineer at heart!). The series covers the body from head to toe, so all major areas are addressed. This also means that the origin of patterns or strains can usually be tracked down. Sometimes, where it hurts is not where the problem is located!
Read MoreClients sometimes ask me whether a particular technique “works.” Often, I have to say that there is limited science on massage and bodywork. On the other hand, there is anecdotal information that people find bodywork to be beneficial. I entered this field because Structural Integration helped me when conventional medicine and PT had not resolved my issues after an injury. Like me, many people are willing to invest time and money in bodywork because they feel better when they receive it.
Read MoreManual therapy such as Structural Integration can help release tension in your body’s tissues. Outside of your manual therapy sessions, you can be good to your body with stretching. Stretching can reduce pain and stress. Stretching can help improve flexibility, balance, and posture – which help us avoid falls or injuries.
Read MoreWe all have a preferred learning style. Do you tend to understand and retain information better when you experience something visually, by hearing it, or when you’re moving?
Read MoreI am pleased to announce that I have received my certification as a CranioSacral Therapist. If you are unfamiliar with CranioSacral therapy (CST), it is a gentle and relaxing technique that helps release restrictions and balance the body. It can address common conditions such as headaches, pain and stress. In addition, I have received specialized training on working with concussions and whiplash.
Read MoreUsually, articles in scientific journals are pretty dry. However, I ran across one about fascia and scars that had rather poetic phrasing. Here are a few of my favorite quotations from Skin, fascias and scars: symptoms and systemic connections by Bordoni and Zanier.
Read MoreMindfulness has benefits like reducing stress and increasing contentment. Often, meditation is the recommended way to learn to be more mindful during the rest of your day. But what if meditation just isn’t your thing? There are ways to experience the benefits through other mechanisms.
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